Maldives or Mauritius?

QUESTION: I have come to value your opinion, so please help my family out. We cannot decide between a holiday in Maldives or Mauritius early next year. We would spend most of our time on the beach, but we want a hassle-free experience. What do you say? - Erna Grobler

ANSWER: Both are fabulous destinations, but there are two things to consider. The first is travelling time. Mauritius is only a few hours flying time away, and you should be at your hotel within 30 minutes of leaving the airport. Getting to Maldives means a much longer flight, usually via another country, and you often have to catch a speedboat or plane to get to your resort. Secondly, if you only intend staying within the resort, relaxing at the pool and on the beach, and eating at the hotel restaurants, then either destination should be fine. However, if you prefer trying out restaurants outside the resort and doing some sightseeing, then Mauritius is a better bet. I would say that you would probably find Maldives more exciting and exotic, and you won't bump into as many South Africans as you will in Mauritius. If you don't mind the long flight and living in splendid isolation, why not give it a try?